enumerate

[ih-noo-muh-reyt, ih-nyoo-]

verb (used with object)

enumerated, enumerating 

1. to mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in a list.

   Let me enumerate the many flaws in your hypothesis.

   Synonyms: recount, recapitulate

2. to ascertain the number of; count.

enumerate

/ ɪˈnjuːməˌreɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to mention separately or in order; name one by one; list

2. (tr) to determine the number of; count

3. to compile or enter (a name or names) in a voting list for an area

Other Word Forms

• enumerative adjective
• enumerator noun
• nonenumerative adjective
• preenumerate verb (used with object)
• reenumerate verb (used with object)
• unenumerative adjective
• enumerable adjective
• enumeration noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of enumerate¹

First recorded in 1640–50; from Latin ēnumerātus “counted out,” past participle of ēnumerāre “to count out,” from ē- e- ¹ ( def. ) + numer(us) number + -āre, infinitive verb suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of enumerate¹

C17: from Latin ēnumerāre, from numerāre to count, reckon; see _number

Example Sentences

Former federal prosecutor Jim Trusty enumerated to me in a recent podcast the more sensitive material that may be to come.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Not everyone may share in the authors’ nostalgia for the period—and the voluminously enumerated attractions of the World’s Fair.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Throughout its episodes lurk excerpts of dialogue enumerating frustration about the state of the world that could be mistaken for modern complaints.

Read more on Salon

“The Commission has not, to date, made a determination regarding whether any such contracts involve an activity enumerated or prohibited.”

Read more on Barron's

The government of which they’re part is bound by laws, by a Constitution that is not only a document of enumerated laws but a mean, lean machine for preserving liberty.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• calculate 
• itemize 
• recite 
• specify 
• spell out 
• take account of 

When To Use

What does enumerate mean?

Enumerate means to name or list things one by one.Enumerate is typically used as a more formal alternative to the verb list. It emphasizes the fact that things are being specifically identified and listed one at a time.Less commonly, enumerate simply means to count. In Canada, it has a much more specific use: it means to enter names in an area’s voting list.Example: I welcome constructive criticism, but you don’t have to enumerate every single one of my mistakes in front of the rest of the people at the meeting.